Individuals involved in flotation studies relax in an 8ft-wide pool, filled with 2,000 lbs. of Epsom salts and 11 inches of water. When individuals float, they float in complete darkness in the absence of any sounds and in a humidified temperature controlled environment. When floating, it is assumed that participants may enhance their interoceptive awareness. Interoception allows the body to renormalize heartrate, respiration, and the sense of well-being. Interoception also connects the skeletal system with the neurological system and further connects the visceral organs and vascular system. Our previous studies with the Float-REST (Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy) pool shows that floatation helps to normalize heartrates and early self-report data indicates that individuals with anxiety report a significant lowering in their depression and anxiety scores. Therefore, floatation therapy may provide a non-pharmaceutical approach to the treatment of stress and anxiety. This poster presents our efforts to study the biochemical markers which may help to substantiate flotation-REST studies. These biochemical markers include the diurnal hormones melatonin and cortisol. Anecdotal evidence has suggested that magnesium levels may be changed. In this study, serum versus percutaneous magnesium and plasma sulfate values are reported.

Flotation biochemical markers in healthy and anxious participants

2019 Spring National Meeting

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